Burgos' BEST Hostal? Campus Hostal Review & Hidden Perks!
Burgos' BEST Hostal? Campus Hostal Review & Hidden Perks! - Honest, Messy, And Absolutely Worth It.
Okay, let's be real. Finding the perfect hostel in Burgos, Spain feels like searching for a unicorn that also knows how to make a decent tortilla española. You've got dozens of options, each promising the world, but let's be frank: some are just glorified closets with dubious plumbing. But then… then you find Campus Hostal. And honestly? It's pretty damn good.
I'm not going to lie, I was skeptical heading there. The pictures are always airbrushed, the reviews are sometimes suspiciously glowing. But I'm here to tell you, after a week of exploring Burgos and crashing at Campus Hostal, it's actually legit. And yes, I'm writing this from my messy desk still buzzing with the amazing vibes of the place.
Accessibility: A Huge Win (and a Little Caveat)
First off: Accessibility. This is HUGE for me since I'm coming back from a knee injury so the elevator was a godsend. Campus Hostal seemed pretty on top of it, which is more than I can say for some of the cobblestone streets in Burgos! There are obviously stairs, it is an old building after all.
Rooms: Clean, Comfortable, and Surprisingly Well-Equipped
Okay, let's talk rooms. I went for a private room, cause I'm not quite ready to share a room with a bunch of loud snorers, but I peeked in some of the dorms, and they looked clean. Like, shockingly clean. Like, "I'd actually consider sleeping here even though I prefer my own space" level of clean.
**What's *Available in all rooms:***
- Air conditioning: Essential for those hot Spanish afternoons!
- Alarm clock: Surprisingly useful. (Okay, I'm old. I still need an alarm).
- Bathrobes: Nice touch for an Hostel!
- Bathroom phone: (Who uses a bathroom phone anymore? Weird)
- Bathtub: YES! Relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.
- Blackout curtains: Crucial for sleeping off my hangover!
- Carpeting: Softer than the typical hostel tiles
- Closet: Space to actually unpack.
- Coffee/tea maker: Saved my life in the mornings.
- Complimentary tea: Always a plus!
- Daily housekeeping: My room always looked fresh when I got back.
- Desk: Perfect for doing some work (or, you know, procrastinating).
- Extra long bed: I could stretch out without my feet hanging off the end.
- Free bottled water: Hydration is key!
- Hair dryer: Didn't have to lug mine around.
- High floor: Good views!
- In-room safe box: Peace of mind for my valuables.
- Interconnecting room(s) available: Great for families or groups.
- Internet access – LAN: (Yeah, still a thing! Though I mainly used the Wi-Fi).
- Internet access – wireless: (See below).
- Ironing facilities: For those who are more put together than I am.
- Laptop workspace: Useful for working on my blog (duh).
- Linens: Clean and comfy.
- Mini bar: Filled with… options.
- Mirror: To check if you look hungover, which, let's be honest, I probably did.
- Non-smoking: (Thank god!)
- On-demand movies: For those lazy nights in.
- Private bathroom: Absolute must-have.
- Reading light: Perfect for late-night reading.
- Refrigerator: For snacks and… ahem… beverages.
- Safety/security feature: Always appreciated.
- Satellite/cable channels: Meh, I was out exploring the city!
- Scale: Reality check time!
- Seating area: Comfy spot to chill.
- Separate shower/bathtub: Luxury!
- Shower: (Obviously.)
- Slippers: A nice touch.
- Smoke detector: (Safety first!)
- Socket near the bed: Genius.
- Sofa: For lounging.
- Soundproofing: Crucial for getting some rest.
- Telephone: (Who actually calls anyone anymore?)
- Toiletries: The basics covered.
- Towels: Fluffy and clean.
- Umbrella: (Always needed in Spain, even if it's sunny!)
- Visual alarm: (Important detail that I didn't need).
- Wake-up service: Okay, maybe I will use that alarm clock!
- Wi-Fi [free]: Super reliable.
- Window that opens: Fresh air is a must!
It's all there!
Internet Access: Free Wi-Fi Everywhere! Seriously.
Wi-Fi in all rooms is included and it was surprisingly fast. I mean, I was uploading photos to Instagram and streaming movies without any buffering. This is a massive win for anyone wanting to keep in touch or catch up on some work. There's also Internet services, the Internet [LAN] for those who still prefer a wired connection and Wi-Fi in public areas. It's everywhere.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: More Than Just A "Free Breakfast" (It's Actually Good!)
This is where Campus Hostal really shines. They're got it all. Seriously.
- Restaurants, Coffee Shops, and a Bar: The on-site restaurant has a great selection of food. A la carte in restaurant meant I could try out some of the local cuisine. Buffet in restaurant offers a fantastic option if you are in hurry. Coffee/tea in restaurant helped me to jump start my day. The Bar served some great local wines and cocktails!
- Breakfast [buffet]: So, this wasn't just the usual sad bread and jam. The Breakfast [buffet] was actually impressive. Fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, pancakes… I'm not a breakfast person, but this almost convinced me. The Western breakfast was on point. The staff are really nice and will happily cater to any needs you have.
- Poolside bar: I had a really chill experience, the pool being close to the bar.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe and Sound
During my trip to Burgos, there was a bit going on in town, but I felt Safe in Campus Hostal, I could come and go without the worry of having my gear being stolen.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax, and Hidden Perks!
This is where Campus Hostal goes above and beyond. They offer a lot of features such as:
- Gym/fitness: a good start to your day.
- Pool with view: you can enjoy your day with the best view.
- Spa/sauna: you can relax yourself.
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
Services and Conveniences: Making Life Easier
- Cash withdrawal: so you don't have to go bank hunting.
- Convenience store: for snacks, drinks, and essentials.
- Currency exchange: good if you're arriving without euros.
- Daily housekeeping: fresh towels and a tidy room every day.
- Elevator: a lifesaver with luggage or mobility issues.
- Luggage storage: free and secure.
- Safety deposit boxes: for your important stuff.
- Doorman: a nice touch, making it even safer.
- 24-hour front desk and security: felt really safe.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly and Welcoming
- Family/child friendly: perfect for the family.
- Babysitting service: for a night out.
Getting Around
- Car park [free of charge]: So you don't have to worry about parking.
- Taxi service: for a quick trip.
The "Hidden Perks": The Real Deal
I'm not talking about a free bottle of water (although, you get one). I'm talking about the little things that make you go, "Wow, they actually thought of that!"
- The Terrace: Perfect for a sunset drink.
- The Staff: Seriously, the staff made the experience. They were genuinely friendly, helpful, and full of local knowledge. One guy even gave me a list of his favorite tapas spots (which, by the way, were amazing).
Some Imperfections (Because I'm Honest):
- The soundproofing in my room wasn't perfect. I could sometimes hear people in the hallway, but it wasn't a deal-breaker.
- The gym is small, but hey, you're in Burgos
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! Because we're diving HEADFIRST into my (hopefully) epic adventure at Hostal Campus Burgos, Spain. This isn't your meticulously planned, sterile travel itinerary. Nope. This is going to be a rambling, slightly-panicked love letter to a city I've never seen, written while I'm pretty sure I'll be accidentally wearing my pajamas to breakfast.
The Hostal Campus Burgos Saga: A Messy Itinerary (With a Side of Existential Dread)
Day 1: Arrival & the Great Bed Conundrum (Plus Questionable Spanish)
Morning (or: "Holy Crap, I'm Actually Doing This!")
- 6:00 AM: Wake up screaming. Realize I haven't packed. PANIC. Where's my passport? Did I remember toothpaste? Is it too early for a glass of wine to calm the nerves? (Spoiler alert: it's always too early, but who's judging!?)
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: The airport shuffle. TSA lines are my personal hell. Swear to be a better person next time.
- 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Flight. Try to sleep. Fail miserably due to the world’s loudest snorer.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Arrive in Burgos! (Hopefully, my luggage did too…). Taxi to Hostal Campus Burgos. Pray it's not a total dive. My expectations are low, but I'm strangely optimistic.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Check-in. "Hola!" (That's all my Spanish, be warned). Pray for a decent room. Seriously, I'm not asking for much… just a bed that doesn't spontaneously combust. I'm particularly worried about bedbugs. I've seen the videos… nightmares.
Evening:
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Room assessment. Okay, it's… functional. The bed might actually hold. Unpack. Discover I packed five pairs of socks and NO underwear. Wonderful.
- 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Dinner. Wander the streets. Find a place that smells vaguely of deliciousness. Attempt ordering food. End up getting something I didn't want but it looks good anyways. This is travel, folks! Embrace the mystery meat!
- 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: First existential crisis. "Wow, I'm in Spain." Try to take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. Fail. Focus on the tapas instead.
- 10:00 PM onwards: Stumble back to the hostel. Write in my journal. Probably complain excessively about the lack of underwear, but secretly, I'm thrilled to be here.
Day 2: Cathedral Clues & Tapas Temptations (Plus the Pizza of Doom)
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Wake up. Survived the night! Victory! Now the question is, breakfast? Hostal breakfast? If it's even halfway good, I'M IN.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Visit Burgos Cathedral. Okay, I'm actually legitimately excited. This thing is supposed to be magnificent! (Or, you know, it better be. Instagram demands it). Get gloriously lost inside. Wander in awe, or at least until my stomach starts rumbling.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch. Find a tiny local place NOT packed with tourists. Order something I can barely pronounce. Cross my fingers. Hope it's not too weird.
Afternoon:
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the city. Get lost on purpose this time! Wander the streets. Observe the locals. Pretend I know what I'm doing. (Spoiler: I don't.)
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: This is the Tapas Tour phase. I am a tourist, and I'm embracing it. This is what I've been waiting for! Find the most popular looking place and order everything. Let's see what the fuss is all about.
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Trying to find a supermarket and discover how to cook something. I got ambitious and thought I'd try to pick up some groceries and make a meal.
Evening:
- 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM: THE PIZZA OF DOOM. I order a pizza and it's… well, let's just say, it's an experience. The crust is like a brick, the cheese seems suspiciously orange, and… It's edible, technically. But my face is like the pizza is.
- 9:00 PM onwards: Wander the streets. Maybe I’ll find a place to get away from the pizza of doom and find some dessert. Reflect on the culinary choices of the day. Vow to learn some actual Spanish before I starve.
Day 3: The Monastery Mystery & Farewell (Plus a Bittersweet Goodbye)
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. Pray for good coffee. And a miracle that fixes the pizza of doom's aftertaste.
- 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Visit Las Huelgas Monastery. Actually, a big part of the reason I chose Burgos. Learn about the history. Get swept away by the architecture. Maybe shed a tear or two. I'm a sucker for a good story, and I'm sure this place has plenty!
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch. The goal: find a restaurant that makes me forget the pizza of doom. This is a quest of utmost importance.
Afternoon:
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Last-minute souvenir shopping. Panic buy a fridge magnet. Curse my inability to make quick decisions.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Pack. Reflect on the trip. Realize I've only scratched the surface of Burgos. Feel a pang of sadness that it's almost over.
Evening:
- 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Final walk around the square. Soak it all in. Say goodbye (for now) to the city.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Head back to the hostel. Make last-minute adjustments to my packing. Try to make sure I have all my important stuff. Make sure I don't accidentally leave my passport behind. (Again.)
- 7:00 PM onwards: Dinner. Find a restaurant. Reflect on the whole experience. Wish I had more time.
The Aftermath: Heading Home (and Planning the Next Adventure!)
- Day 4:
- Morning: The great exodus. Taxi to the airport. Flights. Home.
- Evening: Unpack (or at least start to). Do laundry. Start planning my next trip.
- Recurring: Spend the next few days dreaming of Burgos, scrolling through photos, and wishing I was still there. Learn basic Spanish. Plan another trip.
- Forever: Remember with fondness the quirks, the food fiascos, and the beauty of Burgos. Realize that the imperfections? The mess? That's what makes a trip truly unforgettable. And start planning my return.
This is just the beginning… can't wait to see what adventures await! Wish me luck! And pray for my sanity. And, you know, maybe send a pizza lifeline.
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Campus Hostal, Burgos: The Unfiltered Truth (and Why You Might Still Love It)
Okay, Real Talk: Is Campus Hostal REALLY the "best" in Burgos?
"Best" is a slippery slope, my friend. It depends what you're after. If you're picturing gleaming modern perfection and pristine silence? Maybe... maybe not. BUT, if you’re looking for location, location, LOCATION, a genuine vibe, and a place that *feels* like Burgos -- well, Campus Hostal has a serious contender slot. It's not perfect, far from it, but it's got charm. Think of it as quirky, with a chance of authentic Spanish chaos. (Which, in my experience, is a good thing.)
Location, Location, Location. Tell me about it!
Alright, buckle up. The location? *Amazing*. Seriously, you're practically tripping over the cathedral. Seriously. I remember stumbling out after a particularly heavy tapas session (more on that later...) and *bam*, the gothic glory of Burgos Cathedral was RIGHT THERE. You're seconds from the Plaza Mayor, the heart of everything. Think of it as living *inside* a postcard. Okay, maybe a slightly dog-eared postcard, but still… epic. Getting lost in the tiny streets, finding hidden little restaurants… It's all SO easy from Campus Hostal.
What are the rooms like at Campus Hostal? Are they… clean?
Okay, the rooms. This is where we get… real. They're not exactly the Ritz. They're clean-ish. Let's put it that way. My room was… let’s just say I wouldn’t eat off the floor (unless I was REALLY hungry, and the tapas had failed me). They're basic. Bed, bedside table, maybe a small wardrobe that probably creaked. But! The sheets were clean (praise the lard!), and the location more than makes up for the room's lack of glamour. And honestly? After a day of exploring Burgos, you'll be so exhausted, you'll collapse anywhere. Clean-ish is often perfectly acceptable.
Is there AC or heating? Because Burgos gets HOT (and cold!).
This is crucial. Yes. YES, there is usually *some* form of climate control. BUT… and this is a big ‘but’… it might not be powerful enough to fight off a summer inferno or a winter blizzard. I went in July and... well, let's just say I developed a deep and passionate relationship with my tiny travel fan. In the winter… pack layers. Always pack layers. Ask when booking, there's often a variance. I felt it personally and it did affect my review.
The "Hidden Perks"? Dish the dirt!
Okay, the good stuff! First, the communal areas. They have a little lounge, which, if you're lucky, will have a few travelers hanging out, swapping stories, and maybe arguing the best way to eat chorizo (it's with bread, obviously). There's usually a coffee machine, which is vital for early-morning cathedral expeditions. Second, the staff. They're generally friendly, and willing to help. They may not speak perfect English (and you certainly shouldn't expect it), but they’re trying, and that goes a long way. And occasionally, they have a little breakfast spread - toast, jam, and coffee to get you going. It’s simple, but it does the job.
What about the noise? Being in the heart of things, is it… deafening?
Ugh, this is the downside, and it's a big one for light sleepers. Yes, it can be noisy. You're in a bustling city. You hear EVERYTHING. Especially during festival season, or when the locals decide to party until 4 AM (which, let's be honest, is often). If you're sensitive to noise, bring earplugs. Seriously, pack two pairs. You'll thank me later. One night I was woken up by a brass band practicing *under* my window. It was… an experience. A very loud experience.
Tapas Time! Are there any good tapas bars nearby? (This is critical.)
Oh, HEAVEN YES. This is where Campus Hostal shines. You are LITERALLY surrounded by tapas bars. I'm talking within a five-minute radius. You'll find places serving *morcilla* (blood sausage – don't knock it till you try it!), amazing croquetas, and *vino* that's as cheap as chips (or, well, tapas). My personal favorite was a tiny place around the corner that served the most incredible patatas bravas. I went there every night (don't judge). I’ll even throw in a tip: ask a local (or the hostel staff) for recommendations – they know the hidden gems.
Okay, the Verdict. Would you stay there again?
Honestly? YES. Despite the quirks, the potential noise, and the slightly-less-than-luxurious rooms. Because it’s authentic. Because you’re *in* Burgos, not just near it. Because the location is unbeatable. Because you'll meet interesting people. Because the tapas are incredible. Because, well, it has a certain… charm. Just pack earplugs. Seriously. And maybe an extra travel fan. You got this.
Any specific advice for booking?
Book in advance, especially during peak season – it’s popular for a reason. Definitely ask about the room's location in the building if you are a light sleeper – some rooms are quieter than others. And be realistic about expectations. This isn't a luxury hotel. It's a hostel! Embrace the experience. And get ready for some amazing tapas. You will *not* regret it.
